Williams said the Matildas already viewed themselves as genuine contenders for the forthcoming World Cup in France next June.

Their performances in the Tournament of Nations have cemented that feeling.

Australia beat Brazil 3-1 in their opening match and drew 1-1 with the world No.1-ranked Americans on Monday (AEST) after conceding a late goal from a corner kick.

Then they recovered from a sluggish start against Japan to overwhelm the team that edged them in April's Asian Cup final.

Defender Alanna Kennedy's free kick goal in the 47th minute and a late strike from Samantha Kerr proved the difference in Bridgeview, Illinois.

Kennedy's effort went straight through the Japanese wall and beat goalkeeper Chika Hirao at her near post.

Shortly afterwards Kerr and Hayley Raso both went close to making it 2-0 with shots on goal within three minutes of each other - the former's header was saved while the latter's effort was deflected wide.

Kerr, who was playing at the venue her NWSL club Chicago Red Stars call home, eventually doubled the advantage in the 81st minute.

Hirao rushed out of her box in an attempt to cut off a through ball but misjudged it badly.

Kerr then turned on the pace to round a defender before rolling the ball into an empty net.